Mayor Erin Stewart, Parks and Recreation Chairman Matthew Cannata, and Vice Chairman Patrick Dorsey are pleased to announce the installation of a new outdoor exercise equipment circuit at Willow Brook Park for use by the public. As part of the ongoing renovation project at Willow Brook Park which saw synthetic turf installed at Veterans Stadium as well as a new 9-lane track and rebuilt throwing areas, this unique exercise equipment will be located near the shot put throwing pits and hammer cage on South Main Street near the NBHS ABC school. The state-of-the-art equipment circuit, manufactured by Tri Active America, is similar to the outdoor fit trail equipment located in both Stanley Quarter Park and within the walking loop at Walnut Hill Park.

"The outdoor exercise equipment is the latest and greatest trend in the parks and recreation field. We think the physical education classes at NBHS will use it on a daily basis to get fit. In addition, the equipment will be available to all of the track, soccer, or football athletes to warm up before big events at Veterans Stadium," said Parks and Recreation Director Bill DeMaio. He also encourages the residents to experience a "total fitness workout program that strengthens every body part." The 10-piece circuit overlooks the shot put throwing area and sits in a volcanized all-weather rubber surface. The pieces of exercise equipment and the muscles intended to strengthen include:

"The best part about the new circuit is it has the ability to service so many different needs of people. Whether you are a dynamic athlete who is training, an athlete warming up for a track and field throwing event, or someone using the equipment for preventative maintenance on your body, there are clearly many benefits for the entire community," added Superintendent of Recreation Erik Barbieri.

Mayor Erin Stewart is excited about the potential of the new exercise equipment adding, "The outdoor exercise equipment circuit adds another dimension for improving the recreational experience when visiting Willow Brook Park, whether you are a student, resident, or visitor." The exercise equipment will be available for use year-round. The installation of the outdoor exercise circuit is one of the last finishing touches on the renovation project at Willow Brook Park, which began last February with the removal of the grass field inside the stadium. Since then, the park has undergone a major facelift and is considered amongst state sports circles as the "sports capital of Connecticut". Since the grand re-opening of Veterans Stadium in July, the site has been selected, along with 3 other venues, as a home for CIAC state championships in both soccer (2 games) and football (4 games) in late November into early December.